Check Your Smoke Alarm and CO Detectors Regularly

Gas heating systems burn fuel to create heat. And, unfortunately, that causes some scary byproducts. Carbon monoxide, a toxic gas, is meant to vent to the outside of the home. But when something goes wrong, it could leak into the space in your house. And since it is colorless and odorless, it could go undetected for a long time.

That’s why you must have carbon monoxide detectors—along with smoke detectors, of course—throughout the home. Here’s what you should do to ensure they are always working their best.

Testing the Smoke Alarm and CO Detector Alarm

It’s so important to check your smoke alarm and the carbon monoxide detector each and every month, particularly if your home uses gas heating equipment for the winter. Too many people die or become ill due to carbon monoxide poisoning each year, and you should do what you can to prevent this.

Simply hold down the button on the front of the module to test the alarm. Make sure that you can hear an alarm loud enough to detect across the house.

Change the Batteries Twice a Year

Just because the batteries work now, it does not mean they will continue to work for years longer. No matter what, you should change the batteries twice per year. An easy way to schedule this is to change the batteries during daylight saving time.

Replace at the End of Their Lifespans

There should be a manufacturing date printed on the back of the unit. You should replace any smoke alarm or CO detector after about 10 years, although some manufacturers recommend closer to 7 years. Replace your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, or call in an expert for help.